1. An annotated bibliography is an organized list of sources that includes a paragraph length (100-200 words) annotation.

2. An annotation includes a description/summary of the source and also includes a short evaluation as to how the source can be used in your argument.

3. An annotation is not an abstract.

4. We write annotated bibliographies to provide a literature review of a topic/subject. They also demonstrate the research you have conducted and allows a reader to see the major sources of information on your topic.

5. Writing an annotated bibliography helps you synthesize your own research and should help you develop a thesis.

Looking at the Chicago Manual of Style:

• Remember that you are required to use Chicago notes/bib citation style.  You can find a copy at the ready reference desk and online through Catalyst.
• The more you cite, the more likely you will be able to identify what a book citation and journal article citation might look like, for example. However, it is more important to know how to use the style guide, not to memorize how to do a citation.
• On the style guide, I recommend that you look over: “Basic Format with examples/variations” (Basic structure of a note), Bibliographies (overview and arrangement of entries), Books (all other formats are derived from Books).
• Primary sources in Chicago Format: are explained, with examples, following the Books format.

What your annotated bibliography should look like:

• An annotated bibliography is arranged alphabetically by author last name.
• Citation first and then the annotation.
• The citation has to be indented the same way you would indent it for a regular bibliography.
• Entire annotation is indented from the left margin.